Gender violence online. Moving towards digital equity?

Abstract

Abstract. In the context of a growing trend of violence against women and the sex-gender diverse community in digital spaces, this research analyzes the current state of legislation and public policies aimed at preventing and addressing Digital Gender-Based Violence in four Latin American countries: Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and Ecuador. Through a comparative legislative analysis and a review of public policies, the study identifies progress, limitations, and challenges, with the aim of promoting more effective actions that foster gender equity and non-discrimination in digital environments.
The theoretical framework is grounded in studies on criminology, gender, and digital communication, addressing online violence as an extension of offline violence against women. The methodology combines a literature review and  legal analysis.
Findings indicate that while there is a latent concern—expressed through legislative efforts at varying stages of development—existing measures have limited scope, both in their formulation and implementation. Moreover, gaps in public policy are identified, particularly the absence of comprehensive and cross-cutting preventive approaches from a gender perspective.
In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of advancing towards more robust legal frameworks and public policies that go beyond punitive measures and prioritize the effective prevention of online gender-based violence, while promoting safe and inclusive digital environments. It also highlights the urgent need to address this issue as a real and pressing phenomenon, with tangible impacts on the lives of women and vulnerable communities. This research is part of an ongoing doctoral project that seeks to analyze women’s online victimization, their interactions, victimization experiences, and perceived risks in virtual social networks.